Shelf syndrome is an inflammation and swelling of various mucosal folds. Shelf syndrome, also known as plica syndrome, is particularly common in the knee, but there is also a similar variant in the ankle. There the synovila skin or the ligamentum fibulotalare anterius can be affected.
Causes
Like all joints, the ankle joint is also surrounded by a synovial skin. This is a smooth, thin joint skin. It produces the synovial fluid.
This keeps the joint space supple and reduces friction during movement. At the same time, the synovial fluid contains important nutrients to supply the cartilage and bone. During embryonic development, the synovial membrane forms a membrane that normally recedes.
In some cases, however, it remains and can then lead to discomfort. For example, the upper ankle joint can be affected by shelf syndrome. Furthermore, the anterior ankle ligament (Lig.
fibulotalare anterius) can be irritated by overstrain, repeated microtraumas or congenital ligament weakness. The ligaments that actually secure the ankle joint can become inflamed and swollen. In addition to the ligament mentioned above, other ligaments around the ankle joint can also be affected.
Due to the irritation and inflammatory reaction, there is a risk that the ligament will rupture or that bony changes such as osteophytes will occur. These are cartilaginous or even bony new formations that can eventually prevent the ligament from moving. As a result, movement is restricted and wear and tear on the ankle joint increases. Sportsmen and women are particularly often affected by this syndrome, such as footballers, joggers or other ball sports, which can place extreme stress on the ankle joint.
Symptoms
Shelf syndrome involves several symptoms at the same time. Overuse can cause inflammation. It is often accompanied by typical symptoms such as joint pain and swelling and overheating of the joint.
In addition, irritation of the synovial membrane can cause swelling, which can eventually block the joint. This can lead to an unpleasant pulling in the upper ankle joint, especially under stress. In particular, pulling the foot in the direction of the tibia (dorsiflexion) causes problems for patients.
They have the feeling that the movement is blocked and sometimes feel a rubbing. Depending on how far advanced the Shelf Syndrome is, the symptoms can vary. With a beginning shelf syndrome, the symptoms are still rare and there must be a significant strain on the joint.
In later stages of shelf syndrome, movements such as climbing stairs, cycling or even walking can trigger the symptoms. The irritation of the synovial membrane can lead to an excess of joint fluid. Together with an inflammation of the joints, this can also lead to joint effusion, which is externally noticeable by swelling and sensitivity to pressure.
The irritation can also be the cause of progressive wear and tear of the joint cartilage (arthrosis). In some cases, especially if the cause is not treated, arthrosis may develop. The symptoms may worsen or possibly become permanent.
